If you are under federal investigation for Structuring Transactions to Evade Reporting Requirements in Hanover County, you face potential asset forfeiture and prison time under 31 U.S.C. § 5324. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense. Our Richmond location serves clients at the Hanover County courts. 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Understanding Structuring Transactions to Evade Reporting Requirements
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements, often called “smurfing,” involves breaking up large cash transactions into smaller amounts to avoid triggering federal reporting thresholds. Under 31 U.S.C. § 5324, it is illegal to structure currency transactions with the intent to evade the Currency Transaction Report (CTR) requirement, which applies to cash transactions exceeding $10,000. This is a federal offense prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which covers Hanover County. A conviction can result in up to 5 years in federal prison, fines, and forfeiture of the structured funds. The government does not need to prove the funds came from illegal activity — the act of structuring alone is a crime.
External Citation Links
For the official federal statute, see 31 U.S.C. § 5324 (Cornell LII). For the Eastern District of Virginia federal court, see U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Step 1: Do Not Speak to Investigators. If contacted by IRS-CI, FBI, or other federal agents, politely decline to answer questions and request an attorney immediately.
- Step 2: Preserve All Records. Gather bank statements, deposit slips, business records, and any documentation explaining the source of funds and reason for the transactions.
- Step 3: Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer. Retain counsel experienced in federal financial crimes, particularly structuring cases, before any charges are filed.
- Step 4: Evaluate Potential Defenses. Your attorney will assess defenses such as lack of intent to evade reporting, legitimate business purpose, or government misconduct in the investigation.
- Step 5: Negotiate Pre-Indictment Resolution. In some cases, your lawyer can negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to avoid charges through a declination or deferred prosecution agreement.
- Step 6: Prepare for Trial if Necessary. If charges are filed, your defense team will prepare for trial in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division.
In Hanover County, structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements carries up to 5 years in federal prison, fines, and forfeiture of structured funds.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structuring Transactions (31 U.S.C. § 5324) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | N/A | Forfeiture of structured funds; supervised release; criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. For Hanover County, we have 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements?
Yes. Structuring is the act of breaking up cash transactions into amounts under $10,000 to avoid the Currency Transaction Report (CTR) requirement. It is a federal crime under 31 U.S.C. § 5324, even if the funds are from a legal source.
Can I go to jail for structuring in Hanover County?
Yes. A conviction for structuring carries up to 5 years in federal prison, substantial fines, and forfeiture of the structured funds. The case would be prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division.
What are common defenses to structuring charges?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent to evade reporting, legitimate business purpose for the transactions, lack of knowledge of the reporting requirements, or government misconduct in the investigation.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for structuring?
Yes. If you are under investigation by IRS-CI or the FBI for structuring, you should retain a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
How long does a federal structuring case take in Hanover County?
It depends. Under the Speedy Trial Act, trial must occur within 70 days of indictment. However, complex cases with extensive discovery or motions can take 6-18 months from indictment to resolution.
What is the difference between structuring and money laundering?
Structuring involves breaking up transactions to avoid reporting, while money laundering involves concealing the proceeds of illegal activity. Structuring does not require proof that the funds came from illegal activity, unlike money laundering.
Related Practice Areas
For related legal services in Hanover County, see our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Hanover County page. For other localities, see Albemarle County Federal Criminal Lawyer or Alexandria Federal Criminal Lawyer. For other practice areas in Hanover County, see Business Lawyer Hanover County or Civil Litigation Lawyer Hanover County.
Return to our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.